In Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood, a generous turkey giveaway brought a wave of relief to families preparing for Thanksgiving. The event, aimed at easing holiday preparations, saw many grateful recipients.

The Kindness Campaign collaborated with Chicago’s Home of Chicken and Waffles to host a Sunday morning food drive. The initiative was designed to ensure that families could gather the essentials for a festive Thanksgiving spread.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

Participants were invited to select fresh ingredients displayed on tables, allowing them to choose exactly what they needed for their holiday feasts.

“I’m heading home to start thawing this turkey and figure out the rest,” shared Steve Shannon, one of the thankful attendees.

The combined efforts and contributions made it possible to support 200 families, showcasing the power of community generosity.

“I think a lot of people have planned to cut back when things are uncertain,” said Christopher Watts with the Kindness Campaign. “You typically do nothing and people are just saving, trying to save money because they don’t know how far they’re going to have to make dollars last.”

That uncertainty is being felt by many SNAP recipients who had their benefits temporarily paused during the longest ever government shutdown.

“It means a lot, what we have been going through the past month due to government shutdown,” Jahkira Pipins said. “When I do hear about good pantries, I am up and trying to support my family by getting food.”

SEE ALSO | Beloved Maywood restaurant feeding community for Thanksgiving even as it fights to keep doors open